By Julia Contarelli
Staff Writer
“TJC have been closing the gaps on the percentage of Hispanic kids that graduate here since 2000,” said Hassan Nidia, Tyler Junior College (TJC) sponsor for the Hispanic Student Organization (HSO). “Nowadays, 14 percent of our students are Hispanic.”
HSO has cultural appeal; students who want to learn more about their roots are welcome to study Hispanic cultures and habits.
“My father is Mexican and my mom is white, and I wanted to get more involved with my Mexican side, since my dad passed away when I was 4,” said Dalton Delacruz, TJC student and HSO officer.
Understanding that students spend most of their time on mobile social media, HSO created a Facebook page, listed as TJC.Hispanic.Student.Organization. The page is used to post weekly updates about community service activities that keep the members busy and active.
This spring semester, HSO is introducing an Instagram account with pictures and descriptions of last semester’s activities,such as The Rose Parade, Homecoming week, and other TJC events.
“We are always trying to get closer to our members,” Delacruz said.
HSO members host fundraisers, selling traditional Hispanic bread and other foods. Members take a cart through each building, ensuring everyone has a chance to buy treats.
The HSO is also hosting a Taco Party for its members on Feb. 23.
HSO meets in the Ornelas Hall Gold Room on Wednesdays at 2 p.m. There, students have fellowship and learn more about Hispanic culture. The organization is not limited to Hispanics, but accepts all races and ethnicity’s.
To become a member, call 936-204-1944 and speak with HSO Treasurer Maria Tereza. The membership fee is $10, and includes a free t-shirt.
